Chief of Police John E. Miller

John E. Miller

Chief of Police John Miller and Constable Henry Spencer, of the Breathitt County Constable's Office, were shot and killed while raiding a home on the outskirts of town in Snake Valley that was suspected of having illegal liquor.

Two men were arrested inside the home and taken out front, where Constable Spencer stood guard over them. Chief Miller re-entered the home to arrest a third man but was shot several times while inside. The man then exited the home and exchanged shots with Constable Miller, striking him multiple times.

Despite his wounds, Constable Spencer returned fire and wounded the subject. The man, along with the other two, fled into the nearby hills. The 40-year-old shooter was identified but never apprehended.

Constable Spencer was taken to a local hospital where he died of his wounds on November 2nd, 1927.

Chief Miller had served with the Jackson Police Department for approximately three years. He was survived by his wife and four children.